February 14, 2012

That's right, in Finland we celebrate friends on February 14 - we send cards to all our friends and thank them for their friendship. I don't know about you, but to me that sounds much nicer than a day spent celebrating just couples, don't you think?

As one gets older, friendships tend to change somewhat. There is no need to spend every spare minute with you BFF and it doesn't matter so much if you only see your friends every now and then. I have known some of my friends for more than 25 years and those are the friendships I know will last the time and distance between us.

I made this curry for my best friend last night. It is warming, welcoming and comforting. It nourishes and satisfies. It's my way of saying "I love you."

"All love that has not friendship for its base is like a mansion built upon the sand."

1. Heat the oil in a large pan and add the garlic and ginger. Cook for one minute, then add the chopped sweet potato and a dash of water.

2. While the sweet potato is cooking, heat the spices in a small dry pan for 1/2 minute or until fragrant. Add the spices onto the pan with the sweet potato and continue to cook until the sweet potato is just tender.

3. Add the capsicum and chickpeas and a pinch of salt. Cook for a further few minutes, then add the coconut milk. Finally stir in the kale leaves. Heat through and serve warm.

I'm happily married, but couldn't agree more that Friend's Day is a much nicer idea than Valentine's Day. I remember perfectly well the days when I wore all black on Valentine's Day. So happy Friend's Day to a food blogger who's climbing straight to the top of my favorites list!

Hi Maria, in Poland we do something similar for all our loved ones and friends as well, it's more of a celebration of relationships in general, and those whom we cherish. Your chickpea curry (one of my favourite vegetarian / vegan dishes) looks absolutely fab!

Happy Friend's Day, Maria :) ! Have to check up whether there is an Estonian counterpart? The chickpea curry looks colourfully inviting and will be tried! Even long after SV's Day! Meanwhile 'Hyvää ystävänpäivää!

Hi Maria! I posted Japanese curry udon today, but I have to say yours are much healthier and more beautiful! I want to eat your curry! I didn't know about "Friend's Day". That's sweet. You don't want to know how Japanese celebrate this day....super commercialized! Happy Friend's Day!